FRANKLIN—Troop 17 Scout Richard Whittemore Poland was recently awarded the rank of Eagle Scout.

Richard began his Scouting career as a Tiger Cub in the Courtland pack. He transferred to Pack 17 at High Street United Methodist Church and progressed through the Cub Scout ranks of Bear and Webelos, being awarded his Arrow of Light in 2003.

Richard joined Troop 17 and has served as assistant patrol leader, and patrol and troop scribe. He has earned 26 merit badges, 12 of which were required for Eagle; camped 49 nights with the troop; and has completed more than 47 service hours. Richard has attended summer camp at Camp Chickahominy and Bayport.

For his Eagle project, he built a gated area for trash and pallets used for the food bank sponsored by his church, Boykins United Methodist Church.

Richard is the son of Connie and Chet Poland of Boykins. He is the grandson of Bobby Poland of Boykins, the late Jeanette Poland, Charles Whittemore of Boykins and Virginia Morgan of Courtland. Richard graduated from Southampton Academy and attends Shenandoah University where he plays football.